From humble beginnings to skilled artisans, these incredible women have overcome challenges, discovered new talents and grown in both faith and confidence.
Through RecycloCraftz and Global 8235, they’ve learned vocational skills, earned an income and are creating brighter futures for themselves and their families. Read their stories to see how determination, opportunity and God’s guidance are transforming lives.
Beatrice Banda
Beatrice Banda, 63, from Chelstone, is a hardworking and determined woman who has always done whatever it takes to provide for her family. Before joining RecycloCraftz, she broke stones to help build her own house and sold vegetables and fritters to earn an income. As the breadwinner caring for two patients at home, the responsibility was heavy, but she carried it with strength and perseverance.
Her journey to the center began after attending a workshop at the Irish community with friends. There, she heard about women making bags out of plastic along Palm Drive. Curious and inspired, she visited the following week and was immediately drawn to the creativity and teamwork she found. She knew she wanted to be part of it.
Today, Beatrice enjoys crocheting, making magazine bowls, and sewing. Although she learned to sew years ago, she has grown in confidence using an industrial machine and creating a wider variety of products. The income she earns helps provide food, support her children, and continue building her house. A loan she received through the program played a significant role in helping her move closer to completing her home.
Though she was only able to finish school in Grade 9, her desire to learn has never stopped. She continues to grow in skill and even practices her English at the center. Her faith, strengthened through daily devotions, remains her foundation. She encourages others facing hardship to pray and trust God, believing that nothing is impossible for Him.
Grateful for the support she has received, Beatrice hopes to keep growing and improving, knowing that through this opportunity, her family’s struggles have lessened and her future feels more secure.
Clara Makuwire
Clara Makuwire, 35, has been part of RecycloCraftz since 2009. She joined at 19, just after completing Grade 12, with dreams of becoming a teacher. Financial challenges prevented her from pursuing a teaching degree, but she remained open to new opportunities.
Introduced to the organization through her late mother, Clara was drawn to the creativity of transforming plastic bags into useful products. Over the years, she has learned to sew and now makes a variety of items, with aprons being her favorite. She has also mastered making computer bags and many other products, skills she never imagined having before.
The income she earns supports her family and brings stability to her home. During the painful losses of her mother and daughter, the financial support she received from the organization made a significant difference in her life, deepening her gratitude and connection to the community.
Through daily devotions, Clara has grown spiritually, learning to love and respect others more deeply. Looking ahead, she is considering returning to school to pursue her teaching dream. She remains thankful to the supporters who make this work possible and encourages others facing hardship to seek new opportunities and keep learning.
Josina Muvwanga
Josina Muvwanga, 61, is a natural leader, caregiver, and creative at heart. Before joining RecycloCraftz in 2009, she worked full-time caring for orphans in local facilities. It was there that Tracy first met her, finding her crocheting with the same passion she had carried since childhood.
As a young girl, Josina loved knitting and crocheting, long before modern tools were available. She also served as a leader in church, teaching Sunday school and guiding other women and teens in faith. Though financial difficulties made life challenging, she remained committed to serving others and finding ways to provide for her family.
Her introduction to crocheting with plastic bags was unexpected. After being encouraged to try something new, she slowly discovered how discarded materials could be transformed into beautiful, marketable products. What began as curiosity became opportunity. Today, she especially enjoys making fishnet bags and puppet heads, and recently learned to sew on a machine – a skill she treasures deeply.
The income she earns has helped her support her children, including paying school fees in earlier years. Just as meaningful is the sense of community she has found. At the center, there is laughter, shared stories, prayer, and encouragement. The fellowship fills emotional and spiritual gaps, reminding her that she is not alone.
Her faith has grown stronger through daily devotions, which she describes as spiritual nourishment. Having walked through many hardships, she now encourages others to trust God’s timing and remain hopeful. Grateful for the supporters who make the work possible, Josina continues to serve, create, and believe that both spiritually and practically, her best days are still ahead.
Mary Daka
Mary Daka, 58, is a determined entrepreneur with a deep love for God and people. Before joining RecycloCraftz, she sold fritters and used her knitting skills to make school jerseys. Raised in a Christian home, she once dreamed of becoming a missionary and continues to share her faith whenever she has the opportunity.
She was invited to RecycloCraftz by a neighbor who knew her passion for sewing and creativity. What she found was more than skills training – it was family. Today, she enjoys making paper beads, aprons, and recently learned to sew skirts. The income she earns helps support her household and brings practical relief to daily needs.
After facing serious health challenges, including a stroke and high blood pressure, she received help accessing proper medical care, and her condition is now stable. She also received a prosthetic leg, which has greatly improved her mobility and independence.
Through daily devotions and fellowship, her faith has grown stronger. She encourages others to seek God’s direction and start with whatever small opportunity is in front of them. Grateful to the supporters of the ministry, Mary prays that they are richly blessed for the hope and help they provide.
Mary Mwanga
Mary Mwanga, 64, from Obama, is a resilient widow whose life has been marked by perseverance and faith. After losing her husband in 2006, she relocated to Lusaka in 2008, where a social worker introduced her to RecycloCraftz. At a time when stability felt uncertain, the center became a place of renewed purpose.
As a young girl, Mary dreamed of becoming a nurse. Although marriage prevented her from advancing to college, she carried a heart for helping others and later taught at a community school. She learned to sew at just 16 years old and has always had a willingness to learn any task placed before her. At RecycloCraftz, she continues to grow her skills in sewing, crocheting, and knitting, embracing every opportunity to improve.
The support she has received has made a lasting difference. When she was building her house and could not afford to roof it, help came through the ministry’s donors to complete it. During a long hospital stay with her sick daughter, she was also supported with medical expenses. Today, the income she earns helps provide meals for her family — something that was not always guaranteed in the past.
Living with mobility challenges, she relies on transport to reach the center, yet she remains committed. Through daily devotions and fellowship, her faith has deepened, and she finds strength in sharing and praying with others.
Looking ahead, Mary hopes to begin farming and continue moving forward despite life’s setbacks. Deeply grateful to the supporters who have stood with her, she prays that God blesses them for the hope and dignity they have brought into her life.
Mary Shamwete
Mary, 58, once ran a small kantemba (kiosk) selling vegetables and fritters while also breaking stones to make blocks to build her house. As a young girl, she dreamed of becoming a teacher, but financial challenges forced her to leave school after Grade 7 and marry early.
In 2008, Mary joined RecycloCraftz after hearing about it through her community development committee. She was drawn by the opportunity to earn income and was soon making more than she did from her kiosk. At first, she helped create products from recycled paper and crocheted bags. In 2024, she learned how to sew on a machine – something she had never done before.
Now Mary enjoys sewing skirts, bags, and t-shirts. The income she earns helps her provide food for her family during difficult times. Her growth has also inspired her daughter, Bessy, to study tailoring and design. Bessy later secured employment after completing her training.
Mary walks two hours to work each day. She says the program has made her life better and strengthened her faith, especially in learning to love others through devotion times.
Her hope for the future is to finish and improve her home. Her advice to other women: don’t just wait for others to provide – go out and find something to do.
She is deeply grateful to the supporters who continue to make this work possible.
Jennifer Njobvu
Jennifer joined RecycloCraftz after hearing about a program teaching women to make handbags from plastic bags. She arrived early one Tuesday and waited eagerly to start learning. As a young girl, she had dreamed of becoming a nurse, but life led her down a different path.
She was drawn to RecycloCraftz by the opportunity to earn income, getting paid every Tuesday for the products she made. Jennifer loves crocheting and has learned to make Montessori balls and bags. The earnings helped her support her daughter’s schooling and buy household essentials like a TV and a toilet.
Jennifer travels about an hour by public transport to the center. Though she never learned to sew on a machine, she continues to grow her skills and faith through devotions and community discussions.
Her hope now is simple: to find ways to provide for herself day by day. She encourages others in similar situations not to wait on others for support but to take initiative to earn and share together. Jennifer is grateful to all donors, volunteers, and supporters who make this work possible.
Rodia Chifundu
Rodia’s journey with RecycloCraftz began after hearing about the program from a friend at a community meeting in Kamanga. Life had been tough. she ran a small kiosk, struggled financially, and even crushed stones to lay the foundation for her home.
At RecycloCraftz, Rodia discovered a love for creating mini chimbalas and recycled paper trivets. The income she earns helps her meet daily needs and support her grandchildren. She has also received medical assistance and, at one point, an interest-free loan, which made a big difference during challenging times.
Even walking two hours to the center each day doesn’t deter her. Through devotions and discussions, her faith has deepened, and she reflects on Jesus’ love and resilience in her own life.
Looking ahead, Rodia dreams of continuing to provide for her grandchildren and encourages others facing hardships to stay strong and keep moving forward. She is deeply grateful to the donors, volunteers, and supporters who make this hope and transformation possible.
Wendy Chilangwa
Wendy’s life changed dramatically after her father passed in 2007. From a well-provided childhood, she suddenly faced financial hardship, family divisions, and the responsibility of supporting her mother and younger siblings.
She first learned about RecycloCraftz through her mother, who was already an artisan. At first hesitant, Wendy joined in 2010, eager to help her family. She started by putting linings on crocheted bags and gradually discovered a talent for creating patches, curtains, bedsheets, and more. She also mastered industrial sewing machines – a skill she once feared.
Through the program, Wendy and her family received critical support, including help to finish their home after eviction. The income and skills she gained have not only allowed her to provide for her family but also strengthened her confidence and independence.
Wendy’s faith has deepened over the years. She reflects on God as her rock through life’s challenges and draws strength from devotions that reinforce love, resilience, and perseverance.
Looking ahead, Wendy dreams of pursuing university studies in community development or project management, aligned with her work at RecycloCraftz. Her advice to others facing hardships: trust in God, work hard, and keep moving forward.
To supporters, Wendy shares her gratitude: your help transforms lives and uplifts families. Your continued support makes a lasting difference.
Bridget Konsoso
Before joining RecycloCraftz, life was difficult for Bridget (41). Losing her father at a young age and growing up with a widowed mother meant she had to navigate many challenges without much support. Dreams of becoming a nurse were cut short, and she struggled to find opportunities to provide for herself and her family.
In 2008, Bridget heard about RecycloCraftz through her friend Cecilia. She decided to join, eager to learn new skills and gain an income that could help her family. At the center, she discovered her love for making sling bags and aprons, enjoying the process and the independence it brought.
Over the years, Bridget received vital support from the organization, including assistance when she faced a serious throat problem. These moments made a lasting impact, showing her that she could rely on both the community and the skills she was learning.
Today, Bridget’s life has changed significantly. She can support her widowed mother, help her children with learning, and even share her sewing skills with her son. She has also found the confidence to consider going back to school to expand her knowledge and opportunities.
Her faith has grown through Friday devotions and the lessons at RecycloCraftz, reinforcing the importance of love and service to others.
Looking ahead, Bridget hopes to continue learning, building her skills, and providing for her family. Her advice to others in similar situations is simple but powerful: learn new skills, work hard, and take steps toward your own independence.
Mary Nankololwe
Mary’s journey with RecycloCraftz began with a lifelong love for knitting. From a young age, she made jerseys and baby shawls, relying on her skill to earn an income. Life was not always easy; growing up as the firstborn after her parents separated, she faced hunger and hardship in school. Despite these challenges, Mary never lost her determination to provide for herself and her family.
Her introduction to RecycloCraftz came through a friend, Cecilia, who encouraged her to try crocheting plastic bags. Mary was drawn to the work because of the immediate income: she could create products at home and receive payment the next day. Over time, she also learned to sew on a machine – skills that expanded her ability to create and earn.
Mary has received tremendous support through the program, including two interest-free loans that helped her buy building blocks for her shop and start new projects like crocheted glass bead bracelets and puppet heads. This financial empowerment allowed her to manage her household, provide food for her family, and continue farming, even when government support was unavailable.
Her family is actively involved in her work; they help sort cotton for her bracelets, ensuring that Mary’s success benefits everyone at home. Mary’s faith has grown through devotions and prayer at the center, reminding her that even in difficult times, putting God first brings hope and guidance.
Looking ahead, Mary dreams of owning a tractor to support her farm and continues to hope for bigger achievements, like building her own house. Her advice to others is grounded in faith and perseverance: “Put God first. Hardships teach us lessons and guide us to the right path. Even when times are tough, do not choose the easy way out—trust in God and stay strong.”
Eunice Chalyolola
Before joining RecycloCraftz, Eunice did piece work like washing clothes and making fritters to support herself. Her dreams of becoming a policewoman or journalist were cut short when she had her first child in Grade 9, and life became a daily struggle of chores, school, and exhaustion. She often faced discipline at school simply for being late, and every day felt like a battle.
Eunice first heard about RecycloCraftz from her friend Rhodia Chifundo. She joined because she wanted to learn a new skill – tailoring – and hoped that one day, with God’s help, she could even have her own sewing machine at home. Her favorite creations at the center are the round bags, and learning to sew has been the highlight of her journey so far.
Through the program, Eunice also received assistance to register for NHIMA, and the support has extended to her family – her daughter now has eyeglasses and can read without headaches, opening new opportunities for learning. Eunice’s confidence has grown as she has mastered the sewing machine and taken steps toward independence.
Spiritually, Eunice has grown through the devotions and teachings at RecycloCraftz. Forgiveness and love, once hard for her, have become guiding principles in her life. She now feels more focused and aligned on the right path, with a renewed sense of purpose.
Looking ahead, Eunice dreams of building her own home and creating a stable, better life for her family. To others in similar circumstances, she encourages perseverance and faith: “Pray, work hard, and trust that God will answer. Don’t give up – one day things will change for the better.”
Eunice Mulando
Before joining RecycloCraftz, Eunice supported her family by cooking and selling fritters and vegetables. Growing up, she dreamed of becoming a midwife, but her parents’ separation made continuing school difficult.
She joined RecycloCraftz after hearing about the program at church, hoping to learn sewing skills and earn an income. Her favorite creations are Chimbala bags and pillow covers, and she now sews confidently at home as well as at the center.
The program has given Eunice both skills and independence. Her earnings support her small home business, bringing stability to her family. She has also grown spiritually, learning to hold on to hope and trust that God will provide, no matter the challenges.
Looking ahead, Eunice dreams of buying a car and encourages others in similar situations to keep praying, work hard, and never give up hope.
Martha Mulando
Martha always loved school and was good at Math, dreaming of becoming an accountant. Life, however, took an unexpected turn when she fell pregnant and had to leave school, leaving her dreams on hold. Despite the challenges, she had the support of her parents, which gave her strength to keep moving forward.
Martha first heard about RecycloCraftz at church when Madam Tracy announced an opportunity for women interested in sewing. She and a friend joined immediately, excited by the chance to learn a skill that could provide income and hope for the future. Martha quickly found her passion in crocheting and later learned to sew on a machine in February 2025, opening new opportunities for her and her family.
The program has allowed Martha to support her children, pay for their schooling, and build skills she never imagined she could have. Recently, she even re-sat and passed her Grade 12, despite being older and having children to care form – a testament to her determination and perseverance.
Martha’s faith has also grown through devotions at the center. She has learned about forgiveness, hope, and the love of Jesus, which encourages her to face challenges with confidence and continue striving toward her dreams. She now hopes to study Nutrition, showing that with hard work, faith, and determination, it’s never too late to pursue new goals.
Priscilla Mwanza
Before joining RecycloCraftz, Priscilla faced many challenges as a divorced mother of two, struggling with her small business and managing chronic asthma. She lost her parents at a young age, ending her formal education in Grade 9, and had to take care of her family with limited resources.
Priscilla first connected with the ministry through Madam Tracy, who introduced her to making glass bead bracelets. Initially hesitant to use a sewing machine, she gradually learned to make most of the sewing products, gaining new skills and income opportunities.
The support she received through RecycloCraftz has allowed her to provide for her children, contribute to medical expenses for family members, and feel capable of helping in ways she could not before. Even at 50, she found meaningful work that empowers her and positively impacts her family.
Through daily devotions, Priscilla has grown in faith, learning about God’s love and guidance. Looking ahead, she hopes to build her own house and address health needs like getting dentures. Her advice to others is to stay patient, trust God, and never give up. Faith and perseverance can transform difficult circumstances.
Elita Phiri
Before joining RecycloCraftz in 2014, Elita ran a small kiosk to help support her family. As a young girl, she dreamed of becoming a nurse, but after finishing Grade 12 in 2009, financial challenges made it impossible to continue her studies. Income was limited, and opportunities felt small.
Elita first connected to the ministry through her mother, who was already an artisan. She began by helping her crochet bags and soon discovered her own interest in sewing. When an opportunity opened for more women to join, she stepped forward. Though she initially did not know how to use a sewing machine, her willingness to learn helped her grow in skill and confidence. Today, she enjoys making backpacks and aprons.
The income she earns now helps her provide food, pay rent, and keep her children in school. Having a sewing machine at home has also opened new doors. Community members bring clothes for repairs, and she experiments with making additional products to sell locally. What once seemed impossible has become part of her daily life.
Through the devotions at the center, Elita’s faith has deepened. She has come to understand Jesus as her protector and Savior, and that assurance strengthens her as she works toward a better future. She hopes to continue developing her skills and one day acquire land for her family. Her encouragement to others is to have faith, believe in themselves, and trust that change is possible.
Jane Phiri
At sixteen, Jane is already building toward her dream of owning a business. While in Grade 8, she began making and selling bracelets to her classmates, discovering early on that she enjoyed creating and earning her own money. Now preparing to enter Grade 12, she continues to work toward that goal.
Jane joined RecycloCraftz after hearing about it from her mother and grandmother. She had already been helping her mother sew microwave bowls at home, and in 2024 she learned to sew on a machine herself. Her favorite items to make are microwave bowls and recycled paper bowls, especially the careful process of cutting and rolling the paper by hand.
Through her work, Jane earns money to buy school supplies and clothes, gaining confidence and independence. She also sews for neighbors at home, putting her new skills into practice.
Jane dreams of starting a sewing-related business abroad one day. She encourages other young people to believe in themselves and stay committed to their dreams.
Carol Nzunga
Carol once worked as a maid, doing her best to support her family after losing both her parents at a young age. Life became difficult, and her education ended in Grade 9, shifting the dreams she once had of becoming a lawyer or soldier.
She was introduced to RecycloCraftz through her husband and joined to learn new skills and earn an income. Starting with aprons and later mastering sling bags and patchwork designs, Carol overcame her initial fear of sewing and discovered a skill she truly enjoys.
The income she earns now helps her provide food, pay school fees, and manage household needs with greater stability. For a time, her children also received sponsorship support, which deeply encouraged her.
Through the center’s devotions, Carol has grown spiritually, learning about forgiveness, obedience, and trusting God in everyday life. Today, she walks just fifteen minutes to work, grateful for the independence she has gained. Her hope is to see her children grow and thrive, trusting God to remain her strength along the way.
Severina Tembo
Severina Tembo, 64, has found purpose and passion at RecycloCraftz.
Before joining the center, Severina spent much of her time at home, occasionally taking short courses in home management. She first learned about RecycloCraftz through Tracy at their church fellowship and was intrigued by the idea of transforming discarded materials into beautiful, usable products. With curiosity and determination, Severina began learning to sew on industrial machines, quickly becoming proficient in making sling bags and other patchwork items.
For Severina, RecycloCraftz has been more than just a place to learn new skills — it has been a source of community, spiritual growth, and practical support. Through the program, she received a microloan that helped with essential home repairs and has gained confidence in mentoring and supporting other women facing challenges. Her children have also been inspired by her work, seeing the value in creativity and perseverance.
Spiritually, Severina treasures the daily devotions and discussions with her peers. They have strengthened her faith and reinforced her belief that putting God first is the foundation for a meaningful life. She now encourages others to trust in Jesus and seek His guidance in every aspect of life.
Grateful for the donors, volunteers, and supporters, Severina continues to dedicate herself to learning, creating, and nurturing both her skills and her faith, knowing that her journey is helping others grow alongside her.
Idah Sinkala
At 76, Idah Sinkala from Avondale is a beloved part of the RecycloCraftz community.
Before joining the ministry, she sold Munkoyo to earn a living – long days of carrying heavy loads to the market. After losing her husband, Idah faced deep loneliness until she met Tracy, who invited her to the center.
There, Idah found purpose, friendship, and healing. She began sewing in 2022 and now crafts beautiful aprons, headbands, and microwave bowls. Each product helps her earn an income and slowly complete her dream of finishing her house.
RecycloCraftz has become a place of comfort and faith for Idah. The daily devotions remind her to love, forgive, and trust God through every season. Grateful for the support she receives, she says her greatest joy now is working with her hands, surrounded by women who have become family.
Thandiwe Maata
Thandiwe Mataa joined RecycloCraftz soon after joining the learning center as a volunteer. With plenty of free time and a desire to use it wisely, she began looking for something meaningful to do. Her journey with the organization began when her nephew — one of the students at Global 8235’s Learning Center — would come home with books and stories about the ministry. Curiosity led her to visit, and she soon became part of the community.
At RecycloCraftz, Thandiwe discovered a love for sewing, especially using the machine — something she had always dreamed of learning. She enjoys creating sling bags, toiletry bags, and colorful patchwork items, each piece reflecting her creativity and growing confidence.
Through the training program, she’s also learned valuable lessons in budgeting and saving, helping her manage her earnings and support her family.
Spiritually, Thandiwe’s journey has been one of transformation. The daily devotions at the center have strengthened her faith and taught her to rely fully on God. She’s learned that no matter how difficult life becomes, God never fails and always provides a way forward.
Looking ahead, Thandiwe dreams of pursuing a degree in laboratory technology and continuing to grow in both skill and faith.
Jessica Mbewe
Jessica Mbewe, from Kamanga, is a bright and passionate young woman who discovered her love for teaching and sewing at RecycloCraftz. Her journey with the organization began in 2017 when she attended sessions on behalf of her mother, who was an RCZ artisan at the time. Later, encouraged by Tracy, Jessica officially joined the program and has since embraced every opportunity to learn and grow.
Jessica’s favorite activities at RCZ include sewing, making stress balls and microwave bowls. These experiences have helped her build confidence, discover new skills, and develop a deeper sense of purpose.
Spiritually, Jessica has grown through daily devotions, learning about God’s redemption and guidance. Her faith has strengthened, giving her confidence to overcome challenges and share God’s Word with others.
Looking ahead, Jessica dreams of pursuing a diploma in teaching, advancing to a degree, and starting a life dedicated to education, family, and service to God. She encourages others in similar situations to trust that God works everything out for those who love Him.
Christine Makumbi
Christine Makumbi is a passionate and driven young woman who loves learning and helping others. She first connected with RecycloCraftz through Tracy, who shared an opportunity for people interested in sewing when she was volunteering at the center. Christine’s curiosity and love for creativity drew her in, and she began learning how to sew.
At RecycloCraftz, Christine discovered more than just sewing. She enjoys making sling bags, teaching students, and leading devotions – activities that allow her to share her skills, encourage others, and grow spiritually. Her time at the center has not only strengthened her practical skills but also her confidence and faith.
Through the program, Christine has learned important life skills, including the value of saving and financial responsibility, opening her first bank account to secure her future. Spiritually, she has grown closer to God, learning to prioritize Him daily and share His Word more confidently with her family.
Looking ahead, Christine hopes to attend university in 2026 and start her own business. She encourages others in similar situations to trust God’s plan, stay committed to learning, and believe that small steps can lead to meaningful change.
Sibeso Ngenda
Before joining RecycloCraftz, Sibeso participated in a program organized by the American Embassy that empowered deaf individuals with sewing and design skills. There, Sibeso learned to make bags, customize shoes, and create earrings. However, the long distance and lack of transport money made it difficult to continue consistently.
Sibeso later heard about RecycloCraftz through an aunt who explained that similar skills were being taught closer to home. The shorter distance and the opportunity to learn more—especially how to use a sewing machine—made the decision to join an easy one.
At the center, Sibeso was trained to sew on a machine, something that has made work much easier and more efficient. The environment has been welcoming, with people willing to teach and support each step of the learning process. Sewing on the machine has become a favorite part of the work.
Through these new skills, Sibeso is now able to earn income more regularly and contribute at home. Though participation in devotions can be limited, trust in God has grown stronger during this time.
Looking ahead, Sibeso hopes to start a business and continue building a future through sewing. The encouragement to others facing challenges is to trust that God will surely come through.
Stephania Chilele
Stephania Chilele has a passion for teaching and fashion design. She began her journey with Global 8235 after meeting Madam Tracy, joining the Educational Enrichment team as an assistant manager. Within six months, she was promoted to learning centre manager. Inspired by the women sewing at RecycloCraftz, Stephania embraced her own love for creating products, from aprons and jewelry bags to yoyos and backpacks.
Her time at RecycloCraftz has been transformative. Stephania has learned to operate a sewing machine, design new products, and manage her responsibilities with confidence. Spiritually, she has grown through devotions and sharing God’s Word, both at the center and with her family. She now teaches a family member to sew and uses her income to invest in tools like her own sewing machine.
Looking ahead, Stephania dreams of studying fashion and design formally while continuing to serve children through the educational enrichment program. She encourages others to pursue their passions, never give up, and trust God’s guidance in every step of their journey.
Love Singini
Loveness once worked in Roma, doing what she could to support herself. Her education ended in Grade 9 due to financial challenges. As a young girl, she dreamed of becoming a secretary, but without sponsorship, she was unable to continue her studies.
Two years ago, the family she worked for connected her to RecycloCraftz, knowing she had an interest in sewing. Although she had learned basic sewing skills about ten years earlier, the center gave her a renewed opportunity to grow and earn. Today, she enjoys making skirts, aprons, beads, and small bags.
What has made the greatest difference in Loveness’s life is the steady income she receives for each product she sews. That income helps her meet basic household needs and has even allowed her to begin saving – something she could not do before.
Through regular devotions, she has grown in her understanding of Jesus and strengthened her faith. Looking ahead, Loveness dreams of opening a large sewing shop of her own. Her encouragement to others is simple: never lose hope. Even without formal education, there is always meaningful work to pursue and a future to build.
Loveness Jere
Loveness Jere, from Obama compound, has always had a creative spirit and a love for teaching. After completing Grade 12 in 2024, she joined Global 8235, following in the footsteps of her siblings who had been part of the program. With a heart for helping others, she was drawn to both educational enrichment and learning practical skills at RecycloCraftz.
At the center, Loveness discovered a passion for making sling bags and developed her sewing skills on the machine – something she never imagined she could do so quickly. She also enjoys teaching mathematics and CTS, sharing her knowledge with younger learners. Beyond skills, she received support through the eye clinic, gaining glasses that improved her daily life. Workshops on business budgeting, menstrual health, and evangelism further shaped her growth, equipping her for both her personal and professional journey.
Through her work, Loveness contributes to her family’s needs and saves toward her future. Spiritually, she has learned more about faith, forgiveness, and the truths of Scripture, applying the lessons from daily devotions to her own life and sharing them with others.
Looking ahead, Loveness dreams of studying architecture, while continuing to nurture her love for fashion and design. She encourages anyone in a challenging situation to remain hopeful, trust God’s timing, and persevere, confident that He has a plan for their lives.
Sarah Jere
Sera Jere, is a young woman with a love for teaching and a heart for learning. After finishing school, life was difficult, and she was doing small piece work to get by. In early 2020, while scrolling through Facebook, she saw Tracy’s profile – someone she had known since she was 13. That connection opened the door to RecycloCraftz, where she and her brother began learning new skills under the guidance of Kelvin and the team.
Sera quickly discovered her love for making headbands and bracelets, enjoying every chance to create and learn. She recalls being nervous when first learning to sew on a machine, but the patient, supportive women at the center helped her gain confidence. Today, Sera is proud of the skills she has mastered and the independence they bring.
Through her work, Sera contributes to her family’s income, helping pay for rent and food alongside her brother. Spiritually, her faith has grown through daily devotions and seeing how God guides the work of the organization. She now confidently shares lessons from the devotions with her family and peers, living out the love she learns about in Scripture.
Looking ahead, Sera dreams of passing her Grade 12 exams and pursuing a teaching career at university. She encourages others in similar situations to stay hopeful, work hard, and trust God – confident that lives can change just as hers has.
Stanley Ngoma
Stanley Ngoma, from Kamanga, is a skilled and hardworking man who began his journey at RecycloCraftz as a garden boy. Life had its challenges: after losing his parents, he moved from house to house and had to leave school early. Despite this, Stanley always dreamed of becoming a soldier or a doctor – dreams that were put on hold but never forgotten.
He first connected with the organization through a church member and was drawn by the opportunity to learn new skills. Under Barnabus’s guidance, Stanley discovered his love for crafting wooden buttons, sewing, and making bags. Over the years, he has grown into a versatile and respected member of the team, earning the nickname “engineer” for his ability to handle a wide variety of tasks.
Through RecycloCraftz, Stanley has gained skills that transformed his work and life. He now supports his family, has moved them into a bigger home, and continues to build a stable future. Spiritually, he’s found strength in the Bible and in the devotions at the center, learning how faith can guide him through challenges.
Looking ahead, Stanley hopes to increase his income and build his own house, trusting God to lead each step. He encourages others in similar situations to listen to guidance, follow God’s Word, and believe in the strength that faith brings.
Jane Maata
Before joining RecycloCraftz, Jane volunteered at Chelstone Clinic. She always had a passion to learn tailoring, but never had the opportunity. At one point, her church planned to teach women how to sew, but the sewing machines were stolen, and the dream ended there. She also had to stop school in Form 3 when her father lost his job, though she later worked at Walkover Estates farm.
One day, after visiting the center, Jane felt a strong desire to join the women at RCZ. Since then, she has learned many new skills, especially in crafts, which she enjoys most. She began learning to sew this August and is now able to create products she once knew nothing about. She describes the help she has received as overwhelming, with members supporting and encouraging one another.
Jane walks just five minutes to the center each day. Her family is always excited to hear what she has made, and she is proud to share her progress with them.
Spiritually, her faith has grown stronger. She is encouraged by the Bible studies and often finds that the same scriptures shared at church are also discussed at the center. Learning about Jesus – how He healed, helped the poor, and encouraged His followers to remain faithful – has deeply inspired her.
Looking ahead, Jane hopes to continue learning so she can one day teach other women in her community. She wants them to know they do not have to sit at home without hope – they can learn skills, work with their hands, and improve their lives while trusting God.
Bessy Shamwete
Before joining RecycloCraftz, Bessy helped her mother sell fritters by the roadside and assisted with small tasks at home. Life was simple but often challenging, and she dreamed of becoming a teacher.
Bessy first heard about RecycloCraftz through her mother. One day, while she was cooking, Aunt Tracy visited and invited her to join the program. The chance to learn new skills, especially sewing on a machine, made joining an easy decision. Her favorite things to make are pumpkin bags, aprons, and bottle caps.
At the center, Bessy learned to sew on an industrial machine and attended a six-month sewing course. Just one month into her attachment, she was offered a full-time job, which has been a major blessing. The work environment has been encouraging, and she has enjoyed learning and improving her skills while contributing to the group.
Through these new skills, Bessy is now able to earn a steady income, support her mother, and care for her 13-year-old daughter. She has purchased a plot in 15 Miles, gathered 400 blocks, and planted fruit trees in preparation for building a home.
Bessy has also grown in her faith through discipleship at RecycloCraftz. She has learned that loving others is part of loving herself and has experienced God’s guidance and love through the group.
Looking ahead, Bessy hopes to own her own sewing machine and continue creating from home. Her encouragement to others in similar situations is to trust God and remain steadfast – He can bring them to a place of blessing, just as He has for her.
